Joan Laporta Resigns as FC Barcelona President Ahead of 2026 Elections

Joan Laporta has officially resigned as president of FC Barcelona, a strategic move that allows him to run again in the club’s presidential elections scheduled for March 15, 2026. Laporta formalized his resignation on Monday before the Board of Directors, triggering the club’s internal electoral process.

Laporta’s term, which began in March 2021, included defining moments such as the return to the Spotify Camp Nou and multiple sporting successes, while also drawing criticism over financial decisions and management strategy. With his departure, the presidency passes to an interim leadership tasked with steering the club until a new president is elected.

The resignation does not signal Laporta’s permanent exit. Barcelona’s statutes require a sitting president to step down in order to legally seek re-election, opening a period of intense campaigning among members and stakeholders.

Several key directors also resigned alongside Laporta with the intention of standing in the elections, forcing a provisional reorganization of the Board to ensure administrative and sporting continuity.

Following the resignation, Rafael Yuste, previously the club’s first vice president, assumed the role of interim president. He will lead the institution until the newly elected leadership takes office, expected on July 1, 2026.

Laporta has confirmed his intention to seek another term and will face challengers including Víctor Font, Marc Ciria, Xavier Vilajoana, and Joan Camprubí in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive elections in recent club history.

The March 15 vote will take place while the first team remains active in LaLiga, the UEFA Champions League, and the Copa del Rey, adding significant media focus and pressure to the political process as on-field ambitions continue.

Laporta’s temporary exit has sparked debate among supporters and analysts—some backing his continuity based on recent achievements, others calling for change in the club’s institutional and sporting direction as Barcelona approaches a pivotal moment in its modern history.